The 12 Best Museums in Paris
If you’re anything like me, you probably find it tough to choose from the many museums in Paris. I’ve faced the same struggle—so many options, so little time. That’s why I’ve put together this guide to help you discover the top 12 museums in the city.
I want to share my favorite spots with you, making your visit easier and more enjoyable.
I’ve spent countless hours exploring these museums, and I’ve found the ones that truly stand out. Whether you’re into art, history, or modern exhibits, this list will help you find the perfect places to explore in Paris.
Let’s dive in and make your museum tour unforgettable.
1. Louvre Museum
The Louvre is one of the most iconic museums in the world. It’s right in the heart of Paris. The art collection is impressive and draws millions of visitors each year. I remember my first visit and how massive the place felt.
You can’t miss the Mona Lisa. Seeing it up close is pretty special. The Venus de Milo and the Winged Victory of Samothrace are also must-sees.
The Louvre isn’t just paintings. There are sculptures, decorative arts, and tons of artifacts. Even the building is a masterpiece, with the glass pyramid entrance adding a modern touch.
Planning is key. The museum is huge, and it’s easy to get lost. Start with the highlights, then wander around.
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2. Musée d’Orsay
Musée d’Orsay is a must-see in Paris. It’s housed in a stunning old railway station by the Seine. The collection focuses on Impressionist and Post-Impressionist art, which is what makes it so special.
I love the Musée d’Orsay for its unique vibe. The building itself is gorgeous, with its grand clock and airy interior. The art here is incredible, with works by Monet, Van Gogh, and Degas.
One of my favorite pieces is Van Gogh’s Starry Night Over the Rhône. Seeing it in person is unforgettable. The museum also has amazing sculptures and decorative arts.
It’s not as big as the Louvre, which makes it easier to navigate. You can see a lot without feeling overwhelmed. I recommend starting on the upper floors and working your way down. Each level has something amazing to offer.
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3. Centre Pompidou
Centre Pompidou is a must-visit in Paris. It’s right in the lively Beaubourg area. The building stands out with its colorful pipes and exposed structure. It’s a cool piece of modern architecture.
I was blown away by the contemporary art collection. You’ll find works by Picasso, Matisse, and Kandinsky. The mix of art styles makes it exciting and fresh.
The museum isn’t just about paintings. There are also sculptures, installations, and photography. The rooftop offers amazing views of Paris. It’s a great spot for a break.
One of my favorite parts is the interactive exhibits. They’re fun and engaging, perfect for all ages. The library and cinema add even more to the experience.
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4. Musée de l’Orangerie
Musée de l’Orangerie is a must-see in Paris. Nestled in the Tuileries Garden, it’s famous for Monet’s Water Lilies. This museum is very special for my husband and me. We’ve had some of our most romantic moments here.
The Water Lilies are mesmerizing. They fill entire rooms with serene beauty. It’s easy to lose yourself in the tranquility of Monet’s work.
The museum also features works by other artists like Renoir and Picasso. The collection is small but impressive, perfect for a relaxed visit.
I love the peaceful atmosphere. It’s not as crowded as some of the bigger museums, making it a calm escape. The setting in the Tuileries Garden adds to the charm.
We always start with Monet’s rooms, then explore the rest. The intimate space lets you really appreciate each piece.
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5. Musée Rodin
Musée Rodin is a gem in Paris. I really wanted to visit after watching Midnight in Paris, and it didn’t disappoint. Located in a beautiful mansion with stunning gardens, it’s dedicated to the works of sculptor Auguste Rodin.
The Thinker and The Kiss are the highlights. Seeing these famous sculptures in person is amazing. The museum also showcases Rodin’s lesser-known works, offering a deeper look into his artistry.
The gardens are a peaceful retreat. You can stroll among sculptures, flowers, and fountains. It’s a great spot to relax and take in the art.
Inside the mansion, the rooms are filled with Rodin’s sculptures, drawings, and personal collections. The setting adds a historical touch that makes the experience even richer.
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6. Musée Picasso
Musée Picasso is a must-see in Paris. It’s in the Marais district and housed in a beautiful old mansion. This museum is all about Pablo Picasso and his amazing art.
I was excited to visit because it offers a close look at Picasso’s life and work. You’ll find paintings, sculptures, drawings, and ceramics here. Each piece shows a different side of his talent.
One of the best parts is seeing how Picasso’s style changed over time. The museum has everything from his early works to his famous Cubist pieces. It’s really cool to see his art evolve.
The building itself is stunning. The grand rooms and historic feel make the visit even more special. The museum also has temporary exhibitions, so there’s always something new to check out.
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7. Musée du Quai Branly
Musée du Quai Branly is a must-visit in Paris. It’s near the Eiffel Tower and focuses on indigenous art and cultures from around the world. The museum has a stunning modern design, with a lush green wall that’s hard to miss.
I was excited to visit because it offers something different from the usual art museums. The collection includes art, artifacts, and textiles from Africa, Asia, Oceania, and the Americas. Each piece tells a unique story.
One of my favorite parts is the immersive exhibits. The museum uses lights, sounds, and interactive displays to bring the cultures to life. It makes the experience engaging and fun.
The building itself is a piece of art. The architecture and garden are beautiful and create a peaceful atmosphere. It’s a great place to take a break and enjoy the surroundings.
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8. Petit Palais
Petit Palais is a charming museum in Paris. Located near the Champs-Élysées, it’s easy to find and definitely worth a visit. The building itself is beautiful, with its grand entrance and lovely courtyard.
I was drawn to Petit Palais because it offers a mix of art and architecture. The collection includes paintings, sculptures, and decorative arts from different periods. You’ll see works by famous artists like Monet and Courbet.
One of my favorite parts is the stunning interior. The rooms are spacious and filled with natural light. The museum also has a peaceful garden, perfect for a relaxing break.
The exhibitions are well-curated and easy to explore. The mix of art styles keeps things interesting. There’s something for everyone, whether you love classic or modern art.
Petit Palais is not as crowded as some of the bigger museums, which makes for a pleasant visit. I recommend taking your time to enjoy both the art and the architecture.
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9. Grand Palais
Grand Palais is a must-see in Paris. Located on the Champs-Élysées, it’s known for its stunning architecture and impressive exhibitions. The building itself is incredible, with a massive glass roof and classic design.
I was excited to visit because of its amazing art shows and events. Inside, you’ll find a mix of art exhibitions, science displays, and even fashion shows. There’s always something cool happening.
One of the best things about Grand Palais is the variety. You can see classic art one day and modern exhibits the next. The space is huge, allowing for big, impactful installations.
The atmosphere is lively and fun. It’s a great place to experience the vibrant culture of Paris. The exhibitions are well-organized and easy to navigate.
Grand Palais also hosts the annual Art Paris Art Fair, showcasing contemporary art from around the world. It’s a great chance to see new and exciting works.
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10. Musée Marmottan Monet
Musée Marmottan Monet is a must-visit for art lovers in Paris. Tucked away in the 16th arrondissement, it’s a bit off the beaten path, which makes it even more special. The museum is housed in a charming old mansion.
I was drawn to Musée Marmottan Monet because of its incredible collection of Monet’s works. It’s home to the largest collection of his paintings, including the famous Impression, Sunrise. Seeing these masterpieces up close is an unforgettable experience.
The museum also features works by other Impressionist artists like Renoir and Morisot. The collection is extensive but not overwhelming, making it easy to enjoy each piece.
The setting adds to the charm. The elegant rooms and intimate atmosphere make it feel like you’re stepping back in time. It’s a peaceful place, perfect for a leisurely visit.
One of my favorite parts is the basement gallery, where many of Monet’s works are displayed. The lighting and layout make the paintings come to life.
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11. Musée de l’Armée
Musée de l’Armée is a must-visit in Paris. Located at Les Invalides, it’s known for its extensive collection of military artifacts and its impressive architecture. The golden dome of Les Invalides is a landmark in itself.
I wanted to visit Musée de l’Armée because of its fascinating displays. The museum covers a wide range of military history, from ancient times to modern day. You’ll find everything from suits of armor to World War II artifacts.
One of the highlights is the tomb of Napoleon Bonaparte. Seeing the grand tomb is a unique experience. The museum also features detailed exhibits on various wars and battles, with plenty of artifacts and historical insights.
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12. Palais de Tokyo
Palais de Tokyo is a must-visit for contemporary art lovers in Paris. Situated in the 16th arrondissement, it’s one of the largest centers for contemporary art in Europe. The building itself is modern and edgy, setting the tone for what’s inside.
I was excited to visit Palais de Tokyo because it always has something fresh and unconventional. The exhibitions feature cutting-edge art from around the world, with a mix of installations, sculptures, and multimedia pieces.
One of the best things about Palais de Tokyo is its ever-changing exhibits. Every visit offers something new and unexpected. The art here pushes boundaries and challenges traditional ideas.
The space is huge, giving artists plenty of room to create large-scale works. It feels more like an adventure than a typical museum visit. The atmosphere is vibrant and dynamic.
I recommend exploring both the indoor and outdoor spaces. The terrace offers great views of the Eiffel Tower and is a nice spot to relax. There’s also a trendy café where you can take a break.
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